Meter hub safety isolation service entrance disconnect switch

Abstract

A meter hub safety isolation service entrance disconnect switch includes an enclosure configured to mount outside a building and protect contents of the enclosure from ingress of solid foreign objects or the ingress of rain, sleet, or snow and that will be undamaged by the external formation of ice on the enclosure. The enclosure has a dead front cover and removable outside cover in which the outside cover is marked to inform a first responder that the enclosure contains a disconnect switch. The disconnect switch is operable upon removal of the outside cover while the dead front cover remains in place and includes a multi-pole switch having poles sufficient to convey power, neutral and ground as may be required by an electrical power source for a load center serving the premises, the switch opening poles for power and neutral upon actuation, while maintaining the ground of the premises wiring.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]Residential and commercial buildings have wires connected to a utility grid, and the point of connection is usually called a service entrance. A meter at the service entrance measures the consumption of electricity at the building for billing purposes. In addition to electricity for the electrical grid, it is common for buildings to have back-up generators or other alternate power sources, and those are typically connected at the service entrance.[0002]The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires a first responder service entrance disconnect to be placed on the exterior of the building, which has caused the need for a safe means to remove current from the premises wiring during emergencies such as fire. United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Article 1910 sub-part S and article 1926 sub part K states that an employer is responsible and held accountable for removing all known hazards from the work place of their ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a switch that can prevent dangerous electrical flashes during operation. It can be used in existing or new meter hubs and is easy to install. The switch has two parts that can be controlled with one lever, allowing for the safe removal of meters. The technical effects of this invention are safer and more reliable electrical performance, as well as easier installation and maintenance.

Problems solved by technology

In addition, back-feeding of current from an alternate power source (such as a generator used at the premises when the utility grid source has failed, photovoltaic arrays, wind turbines and batteries) endangers line repair persons attempting repair to power lines.

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